Niepoort Garrafeira 1977 is part of one of the port house\u2019s most distinctive traditions. While Vintage Port matures primarily in the bottle and Tawny Port develops its character in wood, Garrafeira follows its own path: first aging in wood, followed by a long period in large glass vessels.<\/p>\n
Niepoort was founded in 1842. The house upholds the Garrafeira tradition, a rare style in which port is transferred to large glass bottles\u2014also known as demijohns\u2014after aging in wood. There, the wine continues to mature before it is finally bottled in smaller bottles.<\/p>\n
1977 is a historic and widely recognized Vintage Port year. Niepoort\u2019s Garrafeira, however, tells a different story than a classic Vintage from the same harvest. Through a combination of aging in wood and in glass, the wine has undergone its own unique evolution. After nearly half a century, the history of the individual bottle is at least as important as the vintage year on the label.<\/p>\n
Dried plums, orange peel, nuts, and subtle spices can make up the wine\u2019s aroma profile. The exact aromas depend on the aging and storage conditions. With a bottle of this age, the fill level and cork deserve special attention.<\/p>\n
Store the port in a cool, dark place. Stand the bottle upright beforehand and open it carefully; decant if necessary to separate any sediment. Serve slightly chilled and pair with nuts or refined cheeses. Even without food, this Garrafeira is a special wine to savor at your leisure.<\/p>\n